Cruise port Bamberg
Port information & tips for Bamberg
Bamberg is a true jewel in the north of Bavaria and inspires as a UNESCO World Heritage city with a history spanning over a thousand years. The "City of Seven Hills" impresses with its unique, medieval flair and its picturesque location on the Regnitz, which gives the town a romantic atmosphere. Highlights include the world-famous Altes Rathaus in the middle of the river, the imposing Kaiserdom, and the charming fishermen's quarter "Klein-Venedig". River cruise ships usually dock at the modern bayernhafen Bamberg, from where the historic old town can be easily reached in just about ten minutes thanks to comfortable shuttle services or short taxi rides. In addition, this central docking point offers a perfect starting point for exploring the magnificent residences and winding alleys of this Upper Franconian metropolis.
Bamberg, the charming city in Upper Franconia, is a popular starting point for river cruises on the Main-Danube Canal. The port has several berths for river cruise ships and is easily accessible thanks to its central location.
Car
Bamberg is excellently connected to the German highway network, particularly via the A70 and A73, which allow for a convenient arrival. Numerous parking options are available in the city, including central parking garages such as the Tiefgarage Zentrum Nord/Georgendamm or the Parkhaus Zentrum Süd. In addition, Bamberg offers Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts of the city, from which you can take a relaxed bus ride to the center or to the pier.
Train
Bamberg Central Station is an important hub for long-distance transport and is served by ICE and IC trains, enabling a comfortable journey from the entire DACH region. From the station, you can easily reach the river cruise piers by taxi in just a few minutes or use the local city bus lines, which provide a good connection to the center and the relevant berths, such as the Mainlände. Some cruise lines also offer direct transfer services from the station to the ship, making the start of your journey even easier.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Albrecht Dürer Airport Nürnberg (NUE), located around 60 kilometers from Bamberg. Various transfer options are available from there: private shuttle services and taxis will take you directly to Bamberg. The drive takes about one hour on average. Thanks to the good connection to the A73, the journey is scenic and direct. For a relaxed embarkation, we often recommend arriving the day before and staying overnight in one of the central hotels in Bamberg for international flights.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Bamberg, the charming city in Upper Franconia, is a popular starting point for river cruises on the Main-Danube Canal. The port has several berths for river cruise ships and is easily accessible thanks to its central location.
Car
Bamberg is excellently connected to the German highway network, particularly via the A70 and A73, which allow for a convenient arrival. Numerous parking options are available in the city, including central parking garages such as the Tiefgarage Zentrum Nord/Georgendamm or the Parkhaus Zentrum Süd. In addition, Bamberg offers Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts of the city, from which you can take a relaxed bus ride to the center or to the pier.
Train
Bamberg Central Station is an important hub for long-distance transport and is served by ICE and IC trains, enabling a comfortable journey from the entire DACH region. From the station, you can easily reach the river cruise piers by taxi in just a few minutes or use the local city bus lines, which provide a good connection to the center and the relevant berths, such as the Mainlände. Some cruise lines also offer direct transfer services from the station to the ship, making the start of your journey even easier.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Albrecht Dürer Airport Nürnberg (NUE), located around 60 kilometers from Bamberg. Various transfer options are available from there: private shuttle services and taxis will take you directly to Bamberg. The drive takes about one hour on average. Thanks to the good connection to the A73, the journey is scenic and direct. For a relaxed embarkation, we often recommend arriving the day before and staying overnight in one of the central hotels in Bamberg for international flights.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
From the Bamberg port on the Main-Danube Canal, you can easily and flexibly reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town.
Taxi
Official taxis often wait directly at the quay wall or can be called by phone in just a few minutes. The ride to the center takes only about 10 minutes and provides direct access to Bamberg Cathedral or the Old Town Hall.
Public Transport
The buses of the Stadtwerke Bamberg offer a good connection and are easily accessible from the berths. Thanks to regular connections, you can reach the Central Bus Station in a short time and explore the historic Old Town directly from there.
On Foot
The walk to the Old Town takes about 45 to 60 minutes and leads pleasantly along the water. This route is ideal for travelers who appreciate exercise and at the same time want to gather first impressions of the Upper Franconian river landscape.
To ensure your stay in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg is as enjoyable as possible, a walking tour through the historic Old Town is recommended, as its compact structure conveniently connects all the major sights on foot.
Inselstadt & Altes Rathaus
The city's architectural jewel sits spectacularly on a bridge island in the middle of the Regnitz and forms the ideal starting point for a discovery tour through the lively alleys and traditional brewery taverns.
Domberg with the Kaiserdom
On the stately hill, the four-towered cathedral impresses with the famous Bamberg Horseman, while the adjacent Rose Garden of the Neue Residenz offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city thanks to its splendid floral display.
Little Venice
The former fishermen's settlement charms with its picturesque half-timbered houses directly on the banks of the Regnitz and can be perfectly admired during a relaxed walk along the water or during a cozy boat tour.
Neue Residenz and the Rosengarten
The historic Rosengarten of the Neue Residenz is easily accessible from the cruise port in about fifteen minutes by taxi or shuttle and offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views over the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg. This location captivates visitors with its magnificent baroque layout and fragrant variety of blossoms, while the adjacent garden café is ideal for a relaxing break with a view of the Michaelsberg and the picturesque old town. Thanks to its central location on the Domberg, the Bamberger Dom and the splendid halls of the Residenz can also be perfectly integrated into a cultural stroll. Ideally, visit the garden in the morning to fully enjoy the tranquility of the grounds, and plan your return journey to the ship at least one hour before departure.
The return journey from the historic old town to the pier in the Bayernhafen is straightforward and can be planned in a relaxed manner thanks to the good infrastructure and short distances.
Taxi
You can easily find taxis at central taxi ranks such as Maximiliansplatz directly in the pedestrian zone or at the station forecourt. A ride to the port takes about 10 to 15 minutes and, thanks to the direct connection, will bring you back to your ship punctually and comfortably.
Public Transport
Local buses run regularly from the Central Bus Station (ZOB) in the direction of the industrial area/port, offering a reliable connection for your return journey. For example, take line 911 to the Hafenstraße stop, from where you can easily reach the pier after a short walk.
Shuttle Service and Walking
Many cruise lines offer organized shuttle buses that pick you up directly at agreed meeting points in the city center and take you comfortably to the terminal. If you enjoy walking, a flat path along the Main-Danube Canal leads back to the port, also offering beautiful views of the riverbank.
